Fresh Start Surgical Gifts — a local nonprofit dedicated to transforming the lives of disadvantaged infants, children, and teens with physical deformities through the gift of free reconstructive surgery and other healthcare services — celebrated its 10th year at Rady Children’s Hospital with 600 free-of-cost surgeries provided for kids with physical deformities. 
Fresh Start was founded in 1991 by the late Dr. Dennis Nigro, a renowned San Diego plastic surgeon, to provide quality surgical and medical care for children. Since opening its free-standing state-of-the-art clinic at the campus of Rady Children’s Hospital in 2009, Fresh Start has provided medical care valued at over $20 million for 600 patients through the Fresh Start Surgical Gifts Medical Program.
Fresh Start hosts six Surgery Weekends annually where world-renowned plastic and craniofacial surgeons donate their time to provide free surgery for kids in need of reconstructive procedures at the Fresh Start Clinic. The organization treats cosmetic and physical deformities caused by birth defects, accidents, abuse or disease, and are in need of medical care. Fresh Start also treats common conditions that cause low self-esteem among children, including but not limited to: scars or birthmarks, misshapen ears, and Strabismus (crossed eyes).
For more information, visit freshstart.org.